Djing

So, this past Tuesday, the 10th, I dj'd in an official capacity at the Oasis dance club. It was a lot of fun playing more of the music that I liked, and also adjusting what I played according to the crowd. I'm now busy selecting songs for my next gig - again at the Oasis - on the 23rd. It's easy to play songs that one knows people will like, but not as easy to choose music that one likes - is new to the crowd - and blend it in with a few not-played-as-often favorites. But, I refuse to cop out and the take the easy option. I want people to be exposed to the Latin music universe, and not the typical small corner that they do with what others play.

Tales from the Wildfire Lounge

Wednesdays the band Djug Django plays from 6-9pm at the Wildfire Lounge. From 6-7:30 they play, they take a half an hour break, then they play until about 9pm, opening up the last hour to open mike where they accompany anyone who wants to sing. (Not many places where one can get an opportunity like that.) Anyway after 9pm there is dj'd swing music so I was staying on...and I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned around to find one of the band members, Mike. He said, "It was great to see you again out there. I always enjoy seeing you dance." That made my night. I dance for me, and for the person whom I am dancing with, but it is a cherry on the top when the band also gets enjoyment from the people for whom they are playing for.

So back to the dj'd dance. Second song of the night and I asked this old lady to dance. And she seemed reluctant and even when she agreed she said, "Are you sure you want to dance with me? I'm old enough to be your grandmother..." As we talked I found out that she seemed to think that I hadn't asked her to dance ever since her birthday a couple weeks ago. It had affected her pretty badly. I always make a point of not excluding people, and in fact including everyone my dance card so I was perplexed. I am pretty sure I have asked her almost if not every week. However, from now on I've got something to watch out for. It is a small thing to remember, a small courtesy for something that I enjoy anyway. And this cautionary tale serves as a reminder how the smallest action one takes can mean a lot more to someone else, so don't take care only with the actions that are important to you but with all that you do.